Democratic Socialists of America Unites in Chicago to Advance Transformative Change
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The Democratic Socialists of America convened in Chicago, celebrating recent victories over entrenched establishment politicians and outlining bold policies to democratize society, expand justice, and challenge capitalist power within the Democratic Party.
The Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) assembled at Chicago’s McCormick Place for a weekend convention dedicated to expanding its transformative influence inside the Democratic Party. Organizers joyfully highlighted recent primary triumphs, where grassroots campaigns unseated two establishment House incumbents this year and are poised for a third win in Michigan. A CNN poll was cited, showing that nearly one-third of Democrats or Democratic-leaning independents now identify as democratic socialists—a testament to the growing appetite for real change.
DSA co-chair Ashik Siddique told CNN the group’s mission is to help people imagine a radically better society, championing proposals such as a 32-hour work week, universal health care, reparations for the historic injustice of slavery, and a future where police and prisons are abolished. The organization also called for sweeping structural reforms, including replacing the undemocratic Senate with an expanded House and ensuring the judiciary is accountable to the people through Congress.
Membership has surged to about 120,000, breaking records for American socialist groups and signaling a new era of mass movement politics. Siddique noted this milestone coincided with Independence Day, reflecting on the contradictions between the nation’s founding and the ongoing struggle for true liberation.
The summit, attended by around 600 passionate activists, featured speakers like Pennsylvania state legislator Chris Rabb, who celebrated the DSA’s success in defeating establishment candidates and reaching working-class voters beyond the traditional left. Rabb and other leaders acknowledged the need to address the organization’s lack of racial diversity, pledging to deepen outreach and build a truly inclusive movement.
On foreign policy, the DSA reaffirmed its principled anti-Zionist stance, demanding equal rights for Palestinians and Israelis and supporting legislation to revoke tax-exempt status from entities complicit in the oppression of Palestinians. The group’s commitment to international solidarity was clear.
Looking forward, DSA members discussed backing Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s potential 2028 presidential run, emphasizing the urgency of core platform items: Medicare for All, a $25 minimum wage, free college, and ending arms sales to Israel.
Spokesperson Priscilla Yeverino explained that media access was limited to select speakers to ensure attendees could focus on the organization’s history and ambitious goals. The convention concluded with renewed calls for organizing and recruitment, as the DSA continues to build a movement for justice and equality.